DiPietro ready to practice with Islanders
Photo credit: Getty Images | Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro will practice with the team on Tuesday.
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Nov. 23: Islanders 4, Maple Leafs 3 (OT)
TORONTO - Rehabbing goaltender Rick DiPietro will practice with the Islanders Tuesday.
Although the full team will not be on the ice at IceWorks in Syosset because the Islanders will fly back from Toronto and arrive in New York late, DiPietro's participation will be viewed as the next significant step in his rehabilitation.
"Everything has gone according to plan," coach Scott Gordon said last night. "This isn't anything unexpected. We'd be disappointed if he wasn't on the ice soon."
DiPietro began skating in August for the first time since suffering a season-ending knee injury last season. He has taken gradual steps while adhering to a strict rehab protocol throughout the past three months. This development indicates he is progressing steadily toward his return and has not suffered a setback.
After DiPietro practices with the team, he eventually will head to Bridgeport for a conditioning stint, during which he'll likely play two to five games before making his 2009-10 debut.
Homecoming
Although John Tavares' homecoming generated the most buzz, Matt Moulson and Josh Bailey also are from the greater Toronto area.
Moulson expected to have about 25 friends and family members on hand. "I've always dreamed of playing here," said Moulson, a Mississauga native. "It's an exciting thing to be in Toronto."
Bailey, from nearby Bowmanville, said he expected approximately 40 supporters. They watched him score the winner in overtime.
